Cucumber prices in Cyprus have recorded a sharp increase in the days leading up to Christmas, turning a basic salad ingredient into one of the most expensive items in the festive shopping basket.
According to data from the Cyprus Consumers Association, which monitored prices between 10 and 19 December, cucumber prices rose by as much as 82%, while other traditional Christmas products showed more moderate fluctuations.
The survey found that lamb prices fell by 12% due to supermarket offers, highlighting a stark contrast with the surge seen in fresh produce.
Data from the Christmas Price Observatory
Figures from the Consumer Protection Service Christmas Price Observatory show that greenhouse-grown cucumbers recorded a price increase of 25.96%, with an average price of €3.26 per kilo.
Field-grown cucumbers rose by 17.77%, reaching an average price of €3.66 per kilo.
Cold weather behind price increases
Market sources attribute the increases mainly to adverse weather conditions and a sharp drop in temperatures, which have affected production levels.
While cucumbers typically become more expensive during the winter months- particularly field-grown varieties — this year’s rise has exceeded normal seasonal patterns, industry representatives note.
A similar trend has also been observed in Greece, where reports indicate that three cucumbers have been sold for €1 in some markets, reflecting wider pressures on supply across the region.
Also read: Day 9: Festive meal brain: what Christmas feasts do to your mind
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